Flying with Hearing Loss: Accessibility Tips from InnoCaption’s Co-CEO Joe Duarte

Staying Informed Before Takeoff

Q: What’s the best way to stay informed about flight updates and gate changes?
A: As someone who has faced the challenges of hearing loss and understands the importance of staying informed, I recommend a few strategies to stay up to date on flight changes and other important information:

1. Download the airline's mobile app. One of the most effective ways to stay informed about flight changes and receive real-time updates is by downloading the airline's official mobile application. This way you can easily, flight status tracking and any gate change alerts. Enable Push Notifications: Once you have the airline's app installed, ensure that push notifications are enabled. This way, you'll receive immediate updates on your cell phone regarding any changes to your flight, such as delays, gate changes, or boarding announcements. These notifications can be set to include visual alerts, providing better accessibility for individuals who are hard of hearing.
2. Use text and email alerts. Many airlines offer the option to receive important updates via text messages or email. To take advantage of this, make sure you provide your contact information when booking your flight and opt to receive notifications. This ensures that you have multiple channels for receiving vital information and reduces the chance of you missing any important updates.
3. Ask about assistive listening devices at the airport. At the airport, inquire about assistive listening devices (ALDs) available for travelers who are hard of hearing. Some airports provide ALDs that can amplify announcements, making it easier to stay informed about any changes to your flight.

By using these tips you can stress less about getting to your flight and have peace of mind knowing you’re not missing any announcements. Opting to download the airline’s app and receive notifications can go a long way in helping travelers with hearing loss have the best flying experience.

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Navigating the Airport with Confidence

Q: Who should you notify about your hearing loss when flying, and what accommodations can you expect?
A: When flying with hearing loss, it's important to proactively disclose that you are deaf or hard of hearing to airport personnel so you receive appropriate accommodations. Here's my approach to this and who I recommend you inform:

1. Inform the airline during booking. When booking your flight, consider notifying the airline about your hearing loss. Many airlines have customer service representatives or accessibility coordinators who can assist you in making the necessary arrangements. They may add a note to your reservation indicating your hearing loss.
2. Notify the gate attendant. After arriving at the airport, approach the gate attendant or airline staff and inform them of your hearing loss. Explain that you may have difficulty hearing announcements over the airport's public address system and they will make accommodations to make sure you receive important information about your flight.
3. Request priority boarding. It's also a good idea to request priority boarding. When you inform the gate attendant of your hearing loss, you can also let them know that you would like to board the aircraft early and they will provide priority boarding as an accommodation. This allows you extra time to get settled and ensures you don't miss any pre-flight safety instructions.
4. Visual alerts and written communication. Some airports and airlines have visual alerts or electronic displays that provide flight information. Ask the gate attendant if these options are available, and if so, request that they utilize them to convey essential information to you. Additionally, you can communicate in writing if necessary to ensure clear and accurate communication.
5. Assistance from airport accessibility services. Many airports offer accessibility services for travelers with disabilities, including those with hearing loss. These services may include sign language interpreters, written communication, or staff trained to assist individuals with hearing loss.
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Staying Informed During Your Flight

Q: How can you stay aware of in-flight announcements if you have hearing loss?
A: Staying informed of important announcements and concerns while in-flight is crucial for travelers with hearing loss. Here's a recommended approach:

1. Notify the flight attendant during boarding. As you board the aircraft, approach one of the flight attendants and inform them of your hearing loss. Politely explain that you may have difficulty hearing in-flight announcements over the cabin's public address system. Provide your seat number so they can locate you easily if needed. You can also inform the flight attendant on board of how they can best communicate with you, whether it is by approaching you directly, writing down important information, or using visual cues to get your attention when necessary.
2. Utilize closed captioned entertainment. Some airlines offer closed captioning for in-flight entertainment systems, which can be helpful for passengers with hearing loss. Inquire about this feature and how to activate it on your flight. Depending on your flight, captioned entertainment may be available already or you may need to download the airline’s app to have access.
3. Carry items for written communication. It's a good idea to have a pen and paper or a note-taking app on your mobile device readily available. This allows you to communicate in writing with flight attendants if needed for clear communication.
4. Request a pre-flight briefing. If you have a significant hearing loss or are profoundly deaf, consider requesting a brief pre-flight safety briefing from the flight attendant. They can explain safety procedures and emergency exits to you personally, so you have a clear understanding.
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By taking these steps and proactively communicating your needs to the flight attendants, you can help make sure that you stay informed of important announcements and concerns while in-flight.
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Getting Through Security

Q: Will I need to remove my hearing aid or cochlear implant at airport security?
A: No, you do not need to remove cochlear implants or hearing aids when going through airport security. Airport security personnel are trained to recognize these devices and will not ask you to remove them during the security screening process.

However, it's a good practice to inform the security officer that you are wearing cochlear implants or hearing aids before you go through the metal detector or undergo additional security procedures. This helps ensure a smooth and efficient screening process and reduces the likelihood of any misunderstandings.

You can also carry a card or documentation from your healthcare provider stating that you have cochlear implants or hearing aids, which you can show to security personnel if needed. This can be helpful in situations where there might be any uncertainty or if you encounter security personnel who are less familiar with these devices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring assistive listening devices or hearing aid accessories on board?
Yes, assistive listening devices and hearing aid accessories are typically allowed in your carry-on luggage. Keep them easily accessible during the flight in case you need to adjust or use them.‍

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What if there’s an emergency on the plane?
In the event of an emergency, airline staff are trained to ensure the safety of all passengers, including those with hearing loss. Here's what you can do to stay informed:

• Watch for visual cues. Flight attendants often use gestures and visual signals to convey urgent information.
• Follow other passengers. In an emergency, observing how others respond can offer helpful guidance.
• Wait for instructions. In most situations, passengers are asked to remain seated until directed otherwise by the crew.

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What should I do if my hearing aid or cochlear implant malfunctions during the flight?
If your hearing device stops working mid-flight, here are a few steps to take:

• Inspect the device. Check for simple issues like a loose battery or faulty connection.
• Carry backups. Always pack spare batteries or accessories in your carry-on.
• Inform flight attendants. Let them know if you’re having trouble; they may be able to help or offer accommodations.
• Use written communication. If needed, rely on writing to express concerns and preferences clearly.

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Can I use the InnoCaption app while traveling internationally?
Yes! If you're a U.S. resident planning temporary international travel, such as a vacation or business trip, you can continue to use InnoCaption while abroad. Just be sure to notify our support team in advance with your travel dates and destination by emailing support@innocaption.com.

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Ready for Takeoff

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long-haul flight, Joe’s advice is a powerful reminder that with the right tools and communication strategies, accessible travel is absolutely possible for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.

Want to stay connected during your travels? InnoCaption users can receive real-time captioned calls domestically and temporarily while abroad.

Download the app and travel with confidence—wherever life takes you.